A serious three-vehicle collision occurred on Highway 401 in Whitby on Saturday morning, resulting in one individual being hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. The accident involved a pick-up truck and two other vehicles, prompting the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) to fully close the eastbound lanes between Thickson Road and Stevenson Road.

According to updates from the OPP Greater Toronto Area account shared around 7:40 a.m., the eastbound stretch of the highway remained closed until mid-afternoon while officers managed the accident scene. The full closure created significant traffic backups as far back as Brock Street South, leading authorities to advise drivers to seek alternate routes. Suggestions included using Victoria Street East, Consumers Drive, or Dundas Street East to alleviate congestion.

By approximately 3 p.m., the OPP announced that the collision scene had been cleared, and all lanes had reopened to traffic. However, concerns remained for the injured individual, who had been transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Ongoing investigations were initiated to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the crash.

The Highway 401 incident sparked widespread concern as the OPP communicated updates on social media, emphasizing both public safety and the importance of adhering to alternate navigation suggestions. The collision highlights the ongoing risks associated with high-speed vehicular travel, particularly on major highways where multi-vehicle accidents can escalate quickly and backtrack considerable traffic.

In summary, this incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers on the roadways and underscores the importance of driving with caution and awareness of surrounding traffic conditions. The OPP is continuing to investigate the details that led to this serious collision, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.